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LadyArizona

Member
Feb 4, 2016
13
0
Hi Guys,

It's my first post on this forum. I went through almost every single topic but I didn't find the answer. Maybe one of you had a similar situation and can help me.

I came to Canada on February 1, 2014 on a work permit (IEC, open wp). I started working as a legal assistant on March 17, 2014 (on a full-time basis) and continued until the expiry of my WP, which was January 31, 2015. In the meantime I applied for a study permit which was granted. I started my school on Feb 2, 2015 (it is professional course so I could continue working up to 20 hrs during school and full time during breaks). I continue my employment with the same company from March 17, 2014 until now. My status changed so I worked 10,5 months on a full-time basis, and from February on a part-time basis. There was no break in-between. The employment is continuous.

In the meantime my boss got a LMIA for me (only EE points) and I applied under Express Entry system. I received an ITA on Nov. 27, 2015 (FSW inland stream) and submitted my application on Jan 2, 2016.
My question is: Does the work experience that I have count as a 1 full year which is required for FSW? I know CEC requirements clearly state that work experience while you're on SP doesn't count no matter what. I went through all regulations but I couldn't find any information that under FSW program work experience on SP doesn't count. It has to be continuous, at least 1 year, in the NOC O A or B, paid and full-time or part-time, 12 months.

Additionally, I am qualified to work as a legal assistant because I already possess a Law degree from Europe.

Has anyone had similar situation? I am freaking out because according to FSW you have to have at least 1 year of work experience to be eligible for the program. The problem is that's the only one I have.

I would be grateful if someone could reply. In addition my LMIA is valid only until May 2016 so I want to be prepared for what's coming.

Thanks!!!
 
For FSW applications received on or after May 4, 2013

Pursuant to R73(1), “full-time work” means at least 30 hours of work over a period of one week, and pursuant to R73(2), “work” means an activity for which wages are paid or commission is earned.
 
Thank diplomatru! I worked more than 30hrs/week while on a full-time basis (40) and 20hrs/week while on part-time. Of course I've been paid for that work. It seems like I shouldn't worry about it then.
 
LadyArizona said:
Thank diplomatru! I worked more than 30hrs/week while on a full-time basis (40) and 20hrs/week while on part-time. Of course I've been paid for that work. It seems like I shouldn't worry about it then.

Does your reference letter say that?
 
Yes, it says how many hours, from when to when exactly, that is is continuous, paid (with all my hourly rates, I've had a few raises), duties, NOC code and the rest of requirements for reference letter. I also attached my NoA plus pay stubs (and copies of cheques).
 
LadyArizona said:
Yes, it says how many hours, from when to when exactly, that is is continuous, paid (with all my hourly rates, I've had a few raises), duties, NOC code and the rest of requirements for reference letter. I also attached my NoA plus pay stubs (and copies of cheques).

I think you're good to go in this case